🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Year:

2004-2005

Chassis Code:

BP (Wagon), BL (Sedan)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for standard All-Wheel Drive and boxer engines.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda6, Ford Fusion.

Differentiators:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed (boxer) engine configuration offering a lower center of gravity, Subaru's reputation for durability and safety.

Primary Users:

Professional automotive technicians, experienced DIY mechanics, and Subaru enthusiasts seeking in-depth technical information.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (specific regional variations may apply, refer to manual for detail)

Trim Levels Covered:

All trim levels (e.g., 2.5i, GT, Outback Sport, XT)

Estimated Pages:

Extensive, likely exceeding 1500 pages (typical for a complete factory service manual)

Type:

Factory Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, component specifications for EJ253 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated), EJ255 (2.5L Turbocharged) engines.

Transmission:

Service and repair for 5-speed manual transmission (TY755), 4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT) and 5-speed automatic transmission (5EAT).

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front and rear), driveshafts, CV joints, hubs.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson strut with lower control arm, rear multi-link independent suspension. Includes shock absorbers, springs, bushings, stabilizer bars.

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (or ventilated on GT/XT). ABS system diagnostics, hydraulic components, parking brake.

Steering:

Hydraulic power steering system, steering column, tie rod ends, steering rack.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, ECU pinouts, fuse box locations, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, power accessories, sensors, actuators.

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, diagnosis, and repair of air conditioning, heating, and ventilation components.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, structural components.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, accessory belt replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures. DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for engine teardown and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, CV axle replacement, etc.

Installation:

Procedures for installing or replacing major components and accessories.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

High resolution, suitable for printing detailed diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

Not applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

Not applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ253

Engine Displacement 1:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Engine Configuration 1:

DOHC, Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed)

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 165-170 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm (varies by specific model/market)

Torque 1:

Approx. 166-168 lb-ft @ 3600-4000 rpm (varies by specific model/market)

Engine Code 2:

EJ255 (Turbocharged)

Engine Displacement 2:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Engine Configuration 2:

DOHC, Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed), Turbocharged

Horsepower 2:

Approx. 210-250 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm (varies by specific model/market, e.g., GT, XT)

Torque 2:

Approx. 235-280 lb-ft @ 3000-3600 rpm (varies by specific model/market)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Premium unleaded recommended for turbo models)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Code Manual:

TY755

Transmission Type Optional 1:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

Transmission Type Optional 2:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (5EAT - typically on GT/XT models)

AWD System Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate clutch (automatic).

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

SAE 75W-90 (API GL-5)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III compatible fluid)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4665 mm (183.7 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 inches)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2670 mm (105.1 inches)

Length:

Approx. 4670 mm (183.9 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1455 mm (57.3 inches) (Standard), Approx. 1550 mm (61.0 inches) (Outback Sport)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2670 mm (105.1 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1600 kg (3197-3527 lbs), varies significantly by engine and trim.

Gvw:

Refer to vehicle's VIN plate for specific Gross Vehicle Weight.

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approx. 13.4 cu ft (0.38 m³)

Cargo Volume Wagon:

Approx. 32.4 cu ft (0.92 m³) behind rear seats; 66.7 cu ft (1.89 m³) with rear seats folded.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (2005 model year)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (2005 model year)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:

Good (2005 model year)

IIHS Side Impact Crash Rating:

Good (2005 model year)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Available Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags. Available front side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags (on select models).

Seatbelts:

Three-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters. Rear three-point seatbelts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Factory radio with CD player. Available premium audio systems. Aux input not standard on all models.

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed navigation system available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Keyless Entry:

Available keyless entry system.

Bluetooth:

Not standard; aftermarket solutions or specific trim levels might have it.

Usb Port:

Not standard; aftermarket solutions usually required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service), consult manual for specific conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement Ej253:

Approx. 100,000 miles (iridium type)

Spark Plug Replacement Ej255 Turbo:

Approx. 60,000 miles (specialized type, consult manual)

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 7,500 miles or 6 months, then every 30,000 miles or 24 months thereafter (Subaru Super Coolant).

Engine Oil Type:

0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic (API SJ or higher)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter (EJ253), Approx. 4.8 quarts (4.5 L) with filter (EJ255).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Subaru Power Steering Fluid orDexron II/III compatible ATF

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than on earlier Subaru models, head gasket leaks can still occur, especially on higher mileage turbocharged engines. Symptoms include coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, or coolant in oil.

Cv Axles:

Front CV axle boots can degrade and tear, leading to grease loss and premature wear. Listen for clicking or popping noises during turns.

Radiator Fans:

Fan motors can fail, leading to overheating. Check fan operation, especially in traffic.

Catalytic Converter:

Can become clogged over time, affecting performance and fuel economy. May trigger check engine lights.

Turbocharger Wear:

Turbocharged models (GT/XT) may experience oil seal wear or bearing failure if oil maintenance is neglected. Signs include blue smoke from exhaust or reduced boost.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), is known for its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive technology and its distinctive boxer engines.

Generation:

Third generation Subaru Legacy (2004-2009).

Design Changes:

Introduced a completely new platform for 2004, featuring a longer wheelbase and a more spacious interior. Offered in sedan (BL) and wagon (BP) body styles. Significant styling update from the previous generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (various Subaru plants)

Production Years:

2004-2009 (for this generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Many Subaru models, including the Legacy of this era, were recognized for strong safety performance by the IIHS.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied by year and specific engine. Consult historical Consumer Reports data for detailed analysis.